The Rohr Chabad Center for Jewish Student Life at Binghamton University
420 Murray Hill Rd. • Vestal, NY 13850 607-797-0015
info@chabadofbinghamton.com www.JewishBU.com
Dear Friend,
A WORD FROM THE DIRECTORS
It’s never been harder to stay current. New gadgets, trends—even the news cycle— are eclipsed by more novel iterations with alarming speed. Society rarely looks back at what was, infinitely more enraptured with what is and even more, with what’s coming around the bend tomorrow. Starkly juxtaposed against this reality is the Jew’s tenacious observance of the Torah and its ancient commandments. For the 3,334th time, we are once again counting down towards the holiday of Shavuot which marks the revelation at Sinai. The observance of this counting ritual, Sefirat Haomer, gives eloquent voice to our belief in the timelessness of the Torah; its eternal value and relevance in our lives. Today.
In fact, pondering the name of the Shavuot festival—more precisely what it’s not called— can provide further insight. The holiday is referred to as Shavuot, Hebrew for weeks, since by divine mandate Jews prepare for its arrival by counting off the preceding seven weeks. Would it not be more fitting for this important holiday to be known as Matan (the giving of) or Kabalat (the receiving of) Torah?
Perhaps it is to suggest that the giving and receiving of the Torah can never be confined to one day alone. True, we have a holiday that marks the day on which the revelation occurred, but we recognize that the giving and receiving of the Torah is a reoccurring event in our lives. Daily we make a blessing before we study Torah which concludes with the words, “the giver of the Torah,” in present, rather than past tense. Each day we reembrace the gift that is the Torah; reveling in it with the enthusiasm that is characteristic of approaching something novel.
At Chabad, we earnestly believe that “there is no future unless the past is vitally present.” We strive to make the revelation come alive each day in ways meaningful, joyous and eminently relevant. We thank all of you, whose generosity makes this possible.
We wish you all a safe and productive summer, and to our graduates we say l’hitraot, never good bye. Along with the Cheins, Slonims Jr and Ohanas, we watch you leave with pride anticipating the important ways you will make your mark. Mazel Tov to the graduates and their families; may you see the fulfillment of your every dream and prayer and may we always and only share joyous occasions.
We will miss you greatly, so—
Volume 11, Issue 4
Published by CHABAD OF BINGHAMTON
Contact us at: Hakesher@JewishBU.com
Editor Rivkah Slonim
Staff Writer Alan Zeitlin
Proofreading Marlene Serkin, Chaya M. Slonim
Design Avrohom Weg
Photo Credits Seth Johnston
Danielle Kinches
Jennifer Mahram
Sydney Wilson
N’hiye B’kesher, let’s stay connected and be in touch!
Hakesher Dedication
magazine is dedicated
May 2022, Volume 11, Issue 4 Hakesher is published four times a year; September, December, March and May by Chabad of Binghamton, 420 Murray Hill Rd., Vestal, NY 13850. Postage paid at Newark, NJ post offices.
This
in loving memory of Dovid ben Yitzchak Meir Zenilman on the occasion of his 29th Yahrtzeit
Dr. Michael and Marilyn Zenilman and their children — Jeremy ‘06, Elliot ‘09 (and Karen), Daniel ‘09 (and Erin), Ariela ‘11 (and Jeremy) , Joshua, Dodi ‘15, Avital (and Emil), Shoshana and Miriam
Based on the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe of righteous memory
TORAH FOR TODAY
The Torah Is...
By Rabbi Yanki Tauber
The Torah is a guidebook. Valuable things (lawn mowers, iPhones, minivans) come with a book of instructions on how to properly and optimally use them. The same applies to the valuable (and complicated) thing we call life—the Manufacturer enclosed an instruction book.
The Torah is a contract. When two people enter into a partnership, binding their financial futures to a joint destiny, they draw up a contract that spells out their respective duties and commitments. When two people marry, a marriage contract, called a ketubah, is drawn up that does the same. The Torah is our marriage contract with G‑d, the document that details the commitments and duties we assumed toward each other when G‑d chose us as His people and we chose Him as our G‑d at Sinai.
The Torah is identity. What connects the black skinned Ethiopian Jew with the red bearded chassid in Moscow? What does the West Coast Jewish filmmaker have in common with his peddler grandfather or his olive growing ancestor? Nothing. They share no common language, facial features or diet. Any two Jews can be as culturally or even genetically diverse as any other two members of the human race. But the Shema recited today in a Canadian synagogue is the same Shema that was proclaimed in Egypt 3,500 years ago; the criteria for the mikveh built at Masada is the same as for the one that opened in Brazil last week. Torah bridges continents and de gaps generations to serve as our single common expression of our Jewishness.
The Torah is vision. Why are we here? Where are we going? "An architect who builds a palace," cites the Midrash, "has scrolls and notebooks which he consults to know how to place the rooms, where to set the doors. So it was with G‑d: He looked into the Torah and created the world." Torah is the divine blueprint for creation, the vision that illuminates the foundations of existence, its purpose and its significance. To study and live Torah is to understand and experience the soul of reality.
The Torah is daughter and wife. The sages of the Talmud offer a fascinating parable for our special relationship with G‑d and the Torah's role in that relationship:
There was once a king who had an only daughter, and one of the kings came and married her. When her husband wished to return to his country, her father said to him: "My daughter, whose hand I have given you, is my only child; I cannot part with her. Neither can I say to you, 'Do not take her,' for she is
your wife. This one favor, however, I ask of you: wherever you go to live, prepare a chamber for me that I may dwell with you, for I cannot leave my daughter."
In the same way, G‑d said to Israel: "I have given you the Torah. I cannot part with her, and I also cannot tell you not to take her. But this I request of you: wherever you go, make for Me a house wherein I may dwell."
What can be more powerful than the bond between child and parent? The one is the very extension of the being of the other. To the outsider they may seem as two individuals, but in essence they are one. Indeed, we are referred to as "children of G‑d" (Deuteronomy 14:1) in affirmation of the absoluteness of our bond.
There is, however, one element which the parent child relationship seems to lack: the element of choice. The child did not choose to be the parent's child. Nor did the parent choose this particular individual to be his child; if were up to him, he might have chosen someone wiser, kinder, prettier, or more talented. One can therefore argue that while the two are connected in essence, they are connected in essence only: the more "external" trappings of personality—intelligence, character, physical attractiveness, accomplishment—the very things that are often the most "exciting" elements in a relationships—are present in the parent child relationship by default only, and thus lack the meaningfulness and personal significance that are attached to that which is consciously and willfully chosen.
Thus another metaphor comes into play: that of the relationship between a great sage and his brilliant disciple. Theirs is a relationship that is predicated on each other's qualities. The love and devotion of the disciple are motivated by the sage's greatness; the teacher's love and devotion are motivated by the disciple's intelligence and diligence. The teacher and student have chosen to bond with each other.
Yet the master disciple relationship obviously lacks the essential nature of the parent child bond.
Now picture this: Imagine that you are a great king, and the most precious thing in your life is your only daughter. And now you must choose the man who will become your son in law.
The Torah is G‑d's daughter. And the Torah is Israel's bride. In wedding the King's daughter we unite with her, becoming one with that which is one with Him. It is an essential oneness, yet also a chosen oneness.
Yanki Tauber is a chassidic scholar and the author of eleven books—including the groundbreaking Book of Jewish Knowledge—and hundreds of essays on Jewish and Hasidic thought. From 1999 to 2014 he served as content editor of Chabad.org, the world’s largest Jewish educational website. Tauber is currently a senior editor at the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute. He is also editor-in-chief of The Book, a new translation and anthologized commentary for the Five Books of Moses.
SAMPOSTELNIK
A Student Who Is Sharp and Perhaps Soon, a Shark
Sam Postelnik believes in starting a business at a young age. It’s possible we’ll see him on ABC’s “Shark Tank” one day.
He started Revolv with his high school friend Eric Chen and he has big hopes for it. He has even met with some venture capital investors.
“The idea is that software has to catch up with how we interact with our devices,” he explains of Revolv. “We should be able to be on Zoom, put a note on a calendar, and go on to social media sites and it should be a more seamless experience.”
Besides loving to code, his hobbies include ultimate frisbee and chess.
“The fastest someone ever beat me was when I was young and I got checkmated in four moves,” he said. “I ran to my dad who asked if I wanted to play another game and I said ‘no.’”
He said it is important to be able to adapt to new situations. That was certainly the case when he entered at
By Alan Zeitlin ‘00
Binghamton and the pandemic did not allow for regular partying.
“Starting college during Covid was definitely not ideal, as there weren’t many big events being held on campus,” he said. “Luckily, Chabad set up many events for new students and I was able to meet a wonderful group of friends. I’m grateful that I began in Fall 2021, which was much easier than my senior year of high school when everything was remote. Even though there were restrictions, like wearing masks in class and around campus, I was glad to be back in person, making long lasting connections, and learning.”
Originally from the Upper East Side of Manhattan, the computer science major said that he has his campus life down to a science.
“I like that I’m able to have a social life, I’m able to work on academics and with Chabad, Binghamton’s Jewish life is one of the best of any university campus in America.”
Postelnik also made a chrome extension called Fructify, which is a dashboard for your goals, screentime, and has 1,000+ downloads.
When it comes to grades, he wrote on Twitter that it’s more important to give your all and learn and get a ‘B’ than get an easy ‘A.’
He said he’s met some venture capitalists and hopes to meet Mark Cuban one day. With his favorite movies being “Good Will Hunting” and “The Social Network” about the ascension of Mark Zuckerberg, he said his Jewish identity is of great importance.
“Judaism matters to me because it connects you to something that’s bigger than yourself,” he said. “The values that it brings causes each person to strive to be the best version of themselves and that’s our mission every day.”
Alan Zeitlin teaches English and Journalism at a Brooklyn public high school. As a freelance writer for the past 11 years, his articles have appeared in The Jewish Week, The Journal News and other publications.
The women and families of Sharsheret are grateful to The Rohr Chabad Center for Jewish Student Life, Sigma Delta Tau and the students at Binghamton University for raising awareness about breast and ovarian cancer, and the importance of learning about one’s family health history.
The Fashion for the Cure 2022 raised more than $18,000 which will continue to support our programs and services.
The Fashion for the Cure 2022 raised more than $17,500 which will continue to support our programs and services.
Together we are saving lives. Thank you.
Follow us on Instagram @sharsheretofficial to stay informed about Sharsheret events and happenings.
Sharsheret: The Jewish Breast and Ovarian Cancer Community
‘91 Marc and Heather Benjamin announce the birth of their granddaughter Margalit Esther (Riley Rose Benjamin) on March 22, 2022.
‘92 Neil and Chantel Kupferman announce the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter Valentina on May 29, 2022.
‘94 Liba and Yaakov Kadar announce the birth of their grandson, Meir Yehudah Leff, born on Purim Katan, February 15, 2022. He was welcomed home by big brother, Mordechai Simcha.
‘05 Matthew and Gabrielle Bielski announce the birth of their son Lev Isaac (Levi Yitzchok) on January 12, 2022. He was welcomed home by big sister Noa Sonia.
David and Linda Rahmani announce the birth of their son Moshe Zecharia on March 1, 2022. He was welcomed home by big brother Benjamin.
Michael and Jasmine Amirian announce the birth of their daughter, Esther, on March 25, 2022. She was welcomed home by big sister Naomi.
Tovah and Michael Weisel announce the birth of their daughter, Isabella Abigail, on February 16, 2022. She was welcomed home by big brother David.
‘06 Daniel and Alexandra Messing announce the birth of their daughter Maya Ruth on May 1, 2022.
‘07 Miriam and Eli Meltzer announce the birth of their son, Shmuel Avraham, on February 4, 2022. He was welcomed home by big brothers Yehuda, and Mendel.
‘08 Elliot and Arielle (Schweitzer) Coburn announce the birth of their twin daughters Amelia Liv (Aviva Nessa) and Reese Madeline (Miriam Ruth) on May 5, 2021.
‘09 Hannah (Schacht) and Michael Lefkovich announce the birth of their daughter Dahlia Hope (Dahlia Sima) on January 17th, 2022. She was welcomed home by big brothers Yoni (Yonatan Reuven), Avi (Avraham Tzvi Hirsch), and Noam (Noam Aryeh).
Eli and Penina Zazon announce the birth of their daughter, Neima Maayan on April 20, 2022.
Rachel (Pomerantz) and Samuel Gartner announce the birth of their daughter, Olivia Ayla, on March 11, 2022. She was welcomed home by big brother, Benjamin, and big sister, Sophia.
‘10 Michael and Hannah (Schacht) Lefkovich announce the birth of their daughter Dahlia Hope (Dahlia Sima). See ‘09 for full details.
Samuel and Rachel (Pomerantz) Gartner announce the birth of their daughter, Olivia Ayla. See ‘09 for complete details.
‘11 Robert and Jamie Nussbaum announce the birth of their daughter Mila Rae on December 30, 2021.
Arielle (Schweitzer) and Elliot Coburn announce the birth of their twin daughters Amelia Liv (Aviva Nessa) and Reese Madeline (Miriam Ruth). See ‘08 for full details.
Leor and Aliza Joudai announce the birth of their son Noam Chaim on April 11, 2022. He was welcomed home by big brother Ezra Liam and big sister Sarah Esther.
‘12 Alex (Abel) and David Segal announce the birth of their son Noach Avraham, on April 6, 2022. He was welcomed home by big brother, Ezra.
‘13 Ben and Limor Khakahoor announce the birth of their daughter Eliana Ora on October 16, 2021.
‘14 Eytan and Rebecca Rosenbloom announce the birth of their daughter Abigail Rose (Avigayil Zelda) on March 15, 2022.
Elijah and Shira Alsdorf announce the birth of their daughter Zahavah Leah on February 10th, 2022.
Todd and Amanda (Berman) Spiro announce the birth of their son Adam Lev (Aryeh Lev) on March 28, 2022.
Lucy (Schwartz) and Saryah Sober announce the birth of their daughter, Shelby Beatrice, Shalva Bayla, on April 7, 2022. She was welcomed home by big brother, Daniel.
‘16 Gregory and Rachel Ingber announce the birth of their daughter Honey Beatrice (Leba Chana) on December 24, 2021.
Heather Moskowitz and Solomon Braun announce the birth of their daughter Meira Avigayil on March 28, 2022.
Miriam (Wade) and Ariel Broome announce the birth of their son, Oz Rafael, born on February 13, 2022.
‘17 Rachel Lipoff announces her engagement to Aaron Hernan. Rachel works for Bank of America as a UX designer and Aaron is a software developer for Wagr. A February 2023 wedding is planned. They plan to make their home in Miami.
Matt Zeiger and Monica Berman announce their engagement.
Haim and Dyana (Beretz) Engleman announce the birth of their son, Gavriel Zev, on May 2, 2022.
‘18 Rebecca (Roffe) and Jonathan Falk announce the birth of their son, Elisha Dov, on March 29, 2022.
‘19 Ariel Gidon and Arielle Goldschmidt announce their engagement; an August 18, 2022. Ariel is completing his medical training at Downstate Medical Center and Arielle will be working as a nurse. They will make their home in NYC.
Ori and Rachel Karudo were married March 2, 2022. Ori is studying at Yeshivat Or Hachayim and Rachel works at the Be’er Miriam Seminary. They make their home in Jerusalem, Israel.
Emily Okun and Danny Reyhan announce their engagement; a September 3, 2023 wedding is planned. Emily is earning her doctorate in Occupational Therapy at the NYI of Technology; Danny is in realestate. They will make their home on Long Island, NY.
‘20 Isaac Feldman and Hannah Loffman announce their engagement; a November 10, 2022 wedding is planned. Isaac will be working at the Aerospace Corporation; Hannah will be working in Policy Social Work. They will make their home in Washington, DC.
Daniela Benzaquen announces her engagement to Daniel Bar-Levav; a June 2, 2022 wedding is planned. Daniela is studying at Touro College of Dental Medicine; Daniel is studying accounting at Lander College for Men. They will make their home in Queens, NY.
Continued on Page 31
SYMPATHIES
Chabad mourns the passing of...
Alan Bader, on January 9, 2022, father of Scott Bader ‘94 and father in law of Stephanie Cohen ‘95.
Dr. Bruce Marmor, on December 26, 2021, father of David Marmor ‘95. Rebecca Geller Schwartz, on February 13, 2022, mother of Talia Schwartz ‘17.
May the families be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.
Chabad Unlocks Its Superpower; Your Key To Success Might Be a JOBB Click Away
Exciting Chabad Alumni Initiative Aids with Job Placement and Mentoring
By Alan Zeitlin ‘00
The world is getting smaller. But with a new Chabad initiative, opportunities might be getting larger.
Some economic analysts fear a recession is coming but whatever the economic climate, people are always looking for a job or hungering to make a career change that may be more satisfying, both creatively and financially.
JOBB–Jews of Binghamton Business Network could not come at a more crucial time. JOBB will help people connect, hire, get hired, build relationships, network, and access internship and externship opportunities as well as mentorships.
“This is one of our most important initiatives ever and we’ve put a considerable amount of money and work into it,” says Rabbi Aaron Sloniom, Executive Director at the Rohr Chabad Center for Jewish Student Life at Binghamton University. “We’ve been thinking about it for years and people have asked us for it, and we think that it is imperative we work to help people in a way that is significant.”
The JOBB platform service will be free; the website which will go live this summer will be alumni.JewishBU. com. Several hundred people have already signed up and completed profiles. The greatest aspect of this service is the mentoring component, something Zach Alexander, who is the alumni project spearhead on this project says is crucial.
“You don’t always know what you are getting into, but JOBB is a hands on, “boots on the ground” way to know the ins and out of a given field,” said Alexander, who added that there will be mentoring and job opportunities in scores of fields, from medicine, mental health and various therapies to finance, real-estate and law.
“Charity, of course is a wonderful thing but we know that the best thing you can do for someone is to help them find a job that they love,” he said. He added that in the future, there is a possibility the platform might provide matchmaking, but it is currently focused exclusively on jobs.
Binghamton graduate Heather Moskowitz, who helped organize JOBB said it will see big dividends.
“I’m grateful to be a part of such a huge and meaningful
project,” she said. “I think it’s important that the Chabad of Binghamton community members have the opportunity to connect with, benefit and learn from the diverse spread of Chabad alumni. With that there is also huge potential to give back to the community as well. There is so much power in a network like this when resources are pooled together, and we are able to help one another with our unique strengths.”
From the mid-80s to now, there are thousands of alumni members, whose knowledge and expertise can be harnessed. Alexander said that in speaking to Rabbi Aaron Slonim, and his son Rabbi Levi Slonim, director of Chabad Downtown and development, it was clear this was something that could connect older alumni with younger alumni.
“I don’t know how it is with other colleges, but with the Chabad of Binghamton, everyone knows that when you graduate, it’s not the end,” Alexander said. “The shluchim and shluchos remember you and keep tabs on you and they are the best possible references. This is a social network ripe for unity and a pooling of knowledge to help people land jobs that will have a dramatic effect on their lives.”
Headhunter Melanie Eisenberg, a Binghamton graduate who also helped on the project, said there are already numerous jobs available and expects a flood of alumni to sign up as soon as they hear about it. She said people are much more comfortable with people they are familiar with and have commonalities with.
Alexander, who was so excited to speak about JOBB, he called from an airport on his way to Europe, said there will be a filter so people can look at the specific field they are looking for and there will be a map to locate other Chabad of Binghamton alumni in different parts of the country. He said the process of setting up a profile is easy.
“Something as cool as this doesn’t come around so often,” Alexander said. “There’s a slight stigma of people asking for help to get a job, but I think that dissipates when you went to the same school and you know the same people. I think as soon as people find out about this, they’re going to jump right in.”
To Our Family’s Youngest Bearcat, Zack Ben-Ezra.
You Sat Through 4 Binghamton Graduations Until Your Own! Congratulations. We’re So Proud of Your Accomplishments and Excited For What Your Future Holds
Love, Mommy & Daddy Ilana & Mendy Rena & Joey
A SPECIAL HAKESHER GRADUATION FEATURE
The Graduates 2022
Carolyn Albom Just now
MAJOR: Biology
MINOR: Health and Wellness
FUTURE PLANS: Doctorate of Physical Therapy
Harry Basham Just now
MAJOR: Administration with a Concentration in Finance
FUTURE PLANS: FSO
Structured Finance Analyst at Ernst & Young
Avery Benazaken Just now
MAJOR: Economics
FUTURE PLANS: Staying here for one more year to get my masters and then looking to work for a not-for-profit.
Isaac S Ben-Ezra
MAJOR: History
FUTURE PLANS: Law School
Shoshana Bursztyn
MAJOR: Political Science and Judaic Studies
FUTURE PLANS: NYU for a Master’s in Hebrew and Jewish Studies
Ellie Colton
MAJOR: Sustainable Communities
FUTURE PLANS: Sustainable Energy Coordinator at the Network for a Sustainable Tomorrow
Joshua Dorfman
MAJOR: Integrative Neuroscience
FUTURE PLANS: Medical School
Jonathan Eliassian Just now
MAJOR: Economics
MINOR: Biology
FUTURE PLANS: Dental School
Shira Ellenbogen Just now
MAJOR: Nursing
FUTURE PLANS: Not sure the details yet, but be a nurse!
Noam Fox Just now
MAJOR: Finance
FUTURE PLANS: Operations at Morgan Stanley.
Arielle Goldschmidt Just now
MAJOR: Nursing
FUTURE PLANS: Working as neonatal Intensive care unit nurse.
My favorite/most meaningful /most important Jewish experience at
Binghamton University was…
directing Tier One for two years and helping the Freshmen acclimate to Binghamton, being Greek Liaison and working with the Greek groups, participating in Maasim Tovim, and being in Rivky’s Nidah class. CA
Daily Minyan. ZBE
meeting people who changed my life forever. EC
every Friday evening for Kabbalat Shabbat and dinner. It resets your week in a meaningful way and gives you a chance to be with your friends. JD
Succot at Chabad of Binghamton. Every year that I was able to be there I had such an amazing and uplifting chag. AG
being part of the education committee on the G-Board! EJ
my weekly learning sessions with Rabbi Chein. DJK
every day when I thought about the amazingness of this beautiful thriving Jewish community that exists here in Binghamton that provides so many opportunities to get involved and have fun. MK
being a kitchen manager at Chabad. DK
hosting Seders at my house with Chabad’s help. NK
the take-away meals for Shabbat. I know this a bit of an unconventional answer, but it was just really nice to know that Chabad cared about making sure the community was fed and taken care of in a time when we couldn’t all be together. SK
the Annual Chai Lifeline Toy Drive. Seeing how the fruits of our labor have such a significant impact was incredibly meaningful. GL
how we as a Jewish community come together in good and bad times, and that we have such a strong, vibrant, and diverse Jewish community to learn from and lean on. DM
seeing the community come together for Shabbat 2000, in whatever form it took every year, despite the last minute obstacles. YP
helping bring the community closer together with my roommate and BFF, Michael Khaldarov. ER
being a part of so many different Chabad events and the Manager of the Metropolis Deli. JS
Shabbat is a huge component to my Binghamton experience. Either weekly Shabbat dinners/Womens Tish or Shabbat Lunch at Rivky’s home. Another great experience was the Sigma sleepover; a bunch of sisters got together after sisterhood Shabbat and talked at Rivky’s house for hours and then slept over at Chabad. The hours spent at Chabad on Shabbat will always be remembered! MS
Shabbat 2000, loved seeing a community of diverse students bonding over a Shabbat dinner. AT
going to the Mock Wedding in Fall 2019. I have never been to a wedding before and this experience was really fun and exciting. I learned about the various aspects of a Jewish wedding while being involved in the dancing and eating some good food. I’m now ready to attend my first wedding! MZ
eating the best meats in the southern tier at the Metropolis Deli every Tuesday night. EZ
Friday night Shabbat services SB
Mock Wedding or Hakafot in the Dickinson quad! AW
Chabad of Binghamton
The Graduates 2022
Ben Harooni Just now
Eden Janfar Just now
MAJOR: Finance on Pre-Med Track
FUTURE PLANS: Medical School!
Dayne Katz Just now
MAJOR: Political Science
MINOR: Israel Studies
Michael Khaldrov Just now
MAJOR: Master of Business Administration
Danielle Kinches Just now
MAJOR: Psychology
MINOR: Health and Wellness; Judaic Studies
FUTURE PLANS: UPenn School of Nursing
Nathan Klausner Just now
MAJOR: Biology
FUTURE PLANS: Medical school
Shoshana Klein Just now
MAJOR: Graphic Design
FUTURE PLANS: One year Masters of Business Administration at Binghamton University
Gabriel Lowy Just now
MAJOR: Data Analytics
FUTURE PLANS: Mercer Consulting
Jonah Maryles Just now
MAJOR: Art & Design
FUTURE PLANS: NYU Tandon School of Engineering for UX Design of Virtual Realities
Dalia Mermelstein Just now
MAJOR: Psychology
MINOR: Fine Arts
FUTURE PLANS: George Washington University for art therapy
Yardaena Portman Just now
MAJOR: Biology
MINOR: Environmental Studies
FUTURE PLANS: Graduate School at University of Miami
The most important lesson I learned in college is…
to learn something from every person that you meet. CA
it’s okay to go outside your comfort zone and explore things you’re interested in just because. There are so many amazing things happening around us, it’s just a matter of taking advantage of them. ZBE
make yourself available for new opportunities! Also - it’s never too late to ask for an extension. SB
every day is a gift, not guaranteed. A person can make a huge difference in a very short time and it is important to treasure every person and every moment along the way. EC
always become friends with the secretaries and assistants, they’re the ones that get stuff done. JD
carry a stapler in your bag at all times NF
it’s a special environment where people figuring out themselves can find others on the same path. EJ
remember your roots and where you came from. DJK
if you think something should be done, you have the power to do it. SK to pursue various passions even if they might not seem traditional or that they work together. DK
There is time for the things you want there to be time for. NK
moderation. It’s important to prioritize what’s important and treat yourself right. GL
be true to yourself and the rest will follow. JM
if you want something to happen, you have to make it happen! This goes for organizations, events, spur of the moment ideas, friendships, and everything else. DM
making time for friends is just as important as making time for work. YP
get a girlfriend, you’ll be less lonely. ER
learning from your mistakes to better yourself and everyone around you. JS
get involved in things that make you happy. I spent a lot of time during my week balancing schoolwork, sorority life (SAEPi), and Jewish learning. Say yes to new and challenging opportunities, it will be worth it. MS
be a ‘yes’ man when it comes to trying new things and don’t be afraid to fail. AT
keep busy and work hard but never take yourself too seriously. AW
to try new things. For me, it was joining a club sport by myself, eating new foods, and becoming more involved with Chabad. In the future, I hope this will mean to travel more, go to exciting events, and get involved in local activities. MZ
The most important lesson I learned from my parents is…
honesty. Disclosure solves a lot of issues. ZBE be yourself, be kind, and your efforts will come to fruition. SB
mistakes are okay as long as you learn from them and grow. EC
to believe in myself. No matter how impossible the task or class or work seems looking up from the bottom, I have all the ability to do it, I just have to get started. JD
always speak up for yourself. The only way people will know what you’re feeling is if you say something. Advocating for what you believe in can only help you. SE
to be sociable and open to meeting new friends. EJ
don't forget your roots and where you came from! DJK
to be thankful for what you have and for all the blessings Hashem is constantly sending you. MK there is always time to help someone out. NK to give back to your community and be grateful for everything that you have. DK it’s easier than you think to be able to make someone’s day. A simple kind gesture or thinking of others can make a difference between someone having a good day and a bad day. SK
be kind. GL
gratitude in all aspects of life, but most importantly for your community. JM the importance of education and to forge my own path based on what I'm passionate about.
DM
don't be afraid to take chances. ER
enjoy what life has to offer and learn through experiences. I thank my parents everyday for raising me the way they have and allowing me to be myself and grow. MS do the right thing, the rest doesn't matter. AT the most you can do is try your best, I was lucky to grow up in a home where I was encouraged to try my best and my parents were proud of me when I did, no matter the outcome. AW
The Graduates 2022
Adena Posen Just now
MAJOR: Psychology
MINOR: Forensic Health
FUTURE PLANS: Pursuing a Masters of Industrial/ Organizational Psychology at Baruch College
David Rhein Just now
MAJOR: Political Science
FUTURE PLANS: NSU Shepard Broad College of Law
Ezra Rifkin Just now
MAJOR: MBA - Management Information Systems
FUTURE PLANS: Technology
Risk Consulting at EY
Yakir Sacknovitz Just now
MAJOR: Finance
FUTURE PLANS: Binghamton MBA Program
Jacob Smigel Just now
MAJOR: Finance and Management Information Systems
FUTURE PLANS: Working at S&P Global
Maya Solkoff Just now
MAJOR: BA: Music, Vocal Performance
MINOR: Education
FUTURE PLANS: Masa Israel Teaching Fellowship (MITF)
Arielle Sternberg Just now
MAJOR: Accounting
FUTURE PLANS: Tax Associate at PwC
Austin Topkis Just now
MAJOR: Accounting
FUTURE PLANS: 51st President of the United States
Ariel Wajnrajch Just now
MAJOR: Psychology
FUTURE PLANS: 4+1 MBA with a concentration in Management Information Systems
Marc Zalta Just now
MAJOR: Accounting & Finance
MINOR: Spanish
FUTURE PLANS: Auditing at PwC
Eric Zucker Just now
MAJOR: Finance & Mgmt.
Information Systems
FUTURE PLANS: Working at Bloomberg LP
The most surprising/important lesson I have learned during the current Covid 19 crisis.
take advantage of every moment. You never know when something may just come up. ZBE
everything is always changing, you can't plan too far in advance. SB
it doesn't matter what you do or where, or how you do it; it is the people you do it with that make all the difference. JD
I had a concussion during Covid and I learned from both that sometimes everyone needs a break from the craziness of the world and to just take a breath. CA
even on Zoom, people can tell if you are not tall. NF
how important friends, family, and nature are. EJ
never settle for being a minimalist in difficult times. Even in the darkest of times, there is a potential to do great things as long as you keep your head up, persevere, push forward, and never give up. MK
there are always excuses to not do anything. There were two main groups that formed after the pandemic. The ones that blamed everything on the crisis and ones that decided they wanted to actively take control of their lives. NK
creating a solid support system to have in bad times is really important for mental health. SK
make sure to check in on people, you never know what they are going through. GL
mental health is so important! Reach out to friends, even if it seems random. Take walks and take care of yourself. Eat healthy. Spend more time with family and less on your phone. DM
being with friends, family, and strangers is essential. YP don't take simple things for granted. YS
family and close friendships are of the utmost importance. Health is not guaranteed, you must take care of yourself, be aware of others actions, and do things that make you happier daily. MS
say thank you to the ones you love as often as you can! AS don't use unfortunate circumstances as an excuse to give up on your goals. AT
In
Chabad of Binghamton
maximum Tweet length (280 characters), now that you are about to leave BU what would you advise incoming and remaining students?
Make real connections and friends at Chabad. The people create the experience. Leave college knowing that you touched people's lives. CA
Take advantage of every moment! Explore weird interests you may have. There are so many opportunities here you just have to take advantage of them! Don't be afraid to march to the beat of your own drum! ZBE
The people you spend time with make the college experience. Have the best time with your friends and you will have memories and laughs to last a lifetime! Create close connections with friends, faculty and professors. SB
If you want something, work hard at it and do your research. Take a leap and try new things. Even if you don't succeed the first time you'll probably learn something and make new connections. Learning what you don't like is just as valuable as finding something you do. EC
Introduce yourself to the secretaries for your major, because they may make the difference when you need to get into that closed class. Also, get involved with activities and groups on campus regularly. You will find that it actually lowers your stress from classes. JD
Enjoy every second you have here and make the absolute most of it because it comes and goes in a blink of an eye. I will always cherish my time as a part of the Chabad at Binghamton community. JE
Take every opportunity that presents itself to you. Taking those risks and establishing those relationships opens up both your personal and professional life. It makes school more exciting and impactful. And explore Binghamton during the warm months! SE
Don’t take classes before 9:00am, after 5:30pm, and on Fridays. NF
Don't feel the need to stick to one group of people; college is diverse! At the same time, don't overdo it. Speak, laugh, meet - there will never be another time like college. EJ
Take advantage of all the events and learning opportunities that Chabad has to offer as it will benefit you for many years while at Bing and after. DJK
Grab the opportunities that comes your way whether that is in or outside of the Jewish community. When you see something that needs to be done, don't be afraid to be the one to take charge and get it done. DK
Get involved in things. You can always make time for things that you are passionate about. NK
“What will be, will be”. If you are meant to get that grade, you’ll get it (as long as you don’t forget to study). If you’re meant to be friends with that person, they will also put the effort in. Try not to stress too much, it’s not good for you.
SK
The destination is important but be sure to enjoy the journey. You only get your undergrad once so live your best life. Think about those things you’ve always wanted to do and try them out. And be sure to appreciate the time because I can guarantee it will fly by. GL
Your friends here become your family! Being in college you are surrounded by thousands of people going through the same experience as you - reach out and meet new people! Grow! This is a special place and you should have special people to remember it by! JM
Binghamton has lots of great resources. Don't spread yourself too thin, as mental health is so important. It is okay to say no. Be kind to everyone, even those who seem like they don't deserve it, as they could be going through something you have no idea about. DM
Find a group of friends that feel like family. Take advantage of every sport, club, event, etc. Explore and do everything you can during these years because there will be no other time to do it. ER
Take advantage of BU's resources, you're attending the most prestigious SUNY school. AT
Not to rush, to show your gratitude constantly, and to recognize what you are a part of. It's so rare after these four years that you'll attend a shabbat dinner as big as these, notice that before you leave. AW
Every Tuesday at 6:00 P.M. EST go to the Metropolis Deli located in the Great Room of Chabad at Binghamton. At deli you will find friends, warmth, love, and the best meats in the southern tier. EZ
Chabad of Binghamton Seniors Speak...
May
2022 | Issue 01
RS: Carolyn, a consistent passion of yours has been visiting the area elderly through the Barry Raff Maasim Tovim Foundation. Can you share what you learned in the process?
CA: I began volunteering with Maasim Tovim when I was a freshman. I have two grandparents and I know how meaningful it is for them when I call or visit. I know that as one grows older the family support may change and often people in nursing homes do not get visited. I also love Maasim Tovim because I see the difference as it is a hands-on activity. I was even able to save someone's life this year! When Covid hit it was especially important to make and deliver packages – for Jewish holidays and just because – so no one felt all alone.
Finally when Covid restrictions were lifted I could once again visit the nursing home members. This year has been incredible, meeting new seniors, hearing about their lives, painting their nails, taking them off site for fun trips. One resident shared how impressed she is with Chabad’s program because while she has family nearby, the one organization to send visitors has been Chabad. She loves talking about what she is reading in the book club.
I was also reunited with a wonderful gentleman whose warmth and desire to learn gives me goals for when I get to be older. He is in his 80s, but his mind is in its 30s.
I have been able to remind many older residents of their Jewish heritage. It taught me how strong and deep the connection to Judaism is. Seniors who couldn't remember what they ate for breakfast remembered their Hebrew name.
I also learned to always give back, especially to the community you are a part of. Many people come to college and ignore the residents who have been living here their whole lives and I do not think that is fair. It benefits both parties to help each other out. Supporting the elderly is so important, not only because you can
learn something from every person you meet, but also because many of them have no family checking in on them and we are often all they have. It is often isolating being in these nursing homes so it is amazing when I can come in and brighten someone's day. The older generations have helped us so much, we should show a little gratitude.
RS: Zack, one can honestly say that you have Pantone Green #342 blood flowing through your veins with your parents and siblings having all graduated from Binghamton and your having visited here from a very young age. During your time here, you held various leadership positions. What can you say about how things appear from the outside versus what you have learned from being on the "inside".
ZBE: Growing up with parents and siblings who all attended Binghamton meant that Chabad of Binghamton became a home for me from an early age. Almost yearly visits to Binghamton filled with Rabbi Slonim's vegetarian cholent, warm hellos from Rivky, and running around the new-building with young Zalman, afforded me a comfortable familiarity with Chabad which helped me get acclimated as I set off on my own Binghamton journey. This familiarity and what I thought I knew about Chabad was, however, just the tipof-the-iceberg in what I would slowly come to learn about Chabad through my involvement. Chabad is so much more than what can just be seen from an outsider's perspective. Sure, someone can attend all of Chabad's programs and see the amazing work being done to touch every Jewish student at Binghamton, but that would just be half the picture. The other half is a little less glamorous. It happens in late night boardroom meetings, earlymorning cooking sessions, evenings consumed with filling pizza or deli orders and everything in between. It is made up of countless dedicated students and professionals bound by a common goal of bringing Judaism to every Jew at Binghamton University. While less glamorous, these are the bowels which power Chabad and help
it do the truly amazing work it does.
RS: We've had a great Beretz streak here but you did not initially see yourself coming to Binghamton. How has it been? In which ways has life here surprised you?
JB: Coming to Binghamton was certainly not in the cards for me originally, or so I thought, but I can confidently say that Hashem put me exactly where I needed to be. Binghamton has not only given me the opportunity and forum to pursue my interests, but it has allowed me to grow and excel in surprising ways.
If you would have told me three years ago that I would serve as the Gabai in my college community, I would have simply laughed. But Rabbi Slonim sat me down and gave me the courage to take on a role that I did not know I could handle. Although I have certainly struggled at times, the consistent confidence and reassurance instilled within me by all of the rebbeim has been life changing.
Another complete culture shock has been the weekly farbrengens at Rabbi Levi’s. When I invite my friends for shabbos to Binghamton, they are, without fail, shocked at the ruach and energy that fills this community. The inspiration and motivation which is fueled from these experiences has rooted a further love and passion for Judaism more than I could have ever imagined.
Deli has also become a cornerstone element of my time at Binghamton.
To put it simply, Chabad at Binghamton has become a second home to me. When I think of or tell people about my experience at Binghamton, 99% of it is regarding my religious experience and the impact that Chabad has had on me and my development as an individual and a Jew. In the end, it is safe to say that Binghamton was exactly where I belonged.
RS: Ariel, you have consistently been involved with Chabad from when you got to Bing. What have you learned in that process and how do you think it might impact you going forward?
AW: Once I got to Binghamton, it
RIVKY SLONIM
was immediately part of my routine to be coming down that path [“of the righteous”] a minimum of 3 times a week, usually more. It instantly became all about the people. The shluchim here were a big part of this. It was also about all the amazing friends I've made here, the friendly faces, the Seniors who gave me advice about classes, the E-Board members who encouraged me to pursue leadership even though I was intimidated as a Freshman. I have loved getting involved in E-Board and I've learned that all of those cliches about Chabad, being there for you whenever you need it, meeting every Jew where they are, and anything else that random people from your home shul (who probably graduated when Rabbi Levi was in diapers) have said are all true and can never be taken for granted. Another important lesson: even when you think something has nothing to do with Chabad and they probably can't help you, reach out, because they very well might be able to. Also, never assume they can be there for you without doing something to help out. Chabad of Binghamton is a massive operation that requires a ton of manpower, the more you can contribute to that, the better. Moving forward, I honestly think it's taught me to get involved with a local Chabad wherever I'll be next... and ask them if they know the shluchim at Bing!
RS: Avery, you have had leadership roles in your fraternity as well as Binghamton's Student Association Executive Committee. Yet, you have spent many hours in the Chabad kitchen making cookies and other confections for the community to enjoy on Friday nights. What drew you to do this?
AB: While the time I dedicated to my campus and fraternity leadership positions were important to me, I would be saddened to look back at my college experience and see that I didn’t set aside time for my Jewish life on campus, especially within Chabad. Chabad gave me a community, largely through Friday night dinners where I could relax and forget about all the stress of classes and work that I had during the week and making desserts in the Chabad kitchen provided that same feeling of community. It was great to know that I was doing something that would bring everyone joy and brought people to look forward to Friday night dinners. For me, being a part of Chabad helped me find what Judaism means to me. It means having a family wherever you go.
RS: Eric, you've made Deli more than a passion and a good time; you've helped to develop a "cult following." What makes this so important to you?
EZ: The Metropolis Deli is a place where Jewish students in Binghamton can come have a good time with their friends, talking and laughing, while munching on a Pastrami on Rye. Happiness is hard to deliver, but if I can make a sandwich filled with happiness and the best meats in the Southern Tier, then that is the most important thing I do all week.
RS: Davey, on top of your many other involvements and leadership roles, you have been heading the Fashion for a Cure event for some years, took Sinai Scholars, and have been a very active member in the downtown Chabad community. How do you think these involvements shaped you?
DS: This community has given me an amazing sense of family while teaching me many skills that I will definitely use in my future career and life. I will never forget the feeling of being welcomed for Shabbat and even Passover Seder when my peers were home and I was unable to be with my own family. I will cherish the memories of having been able to give back to this community that has gifted me with so much love.
RS: Dayne, Seems to me that one thing you have consistently availed yourself of, are the learning opportunities at Chabad. Tell me a little bit about that.
DJK: The learning opportunities at Chabad have been crucial in helping me stay close to my roots and religion. Specifically the one on one learning with Rabbi Chein I have been doing once a week for the last two years. In these sessions I was able to ask many questions while learning about things I am interested in. It was great being able to participate in a learning that, unlike high school, is just for you; for the purpose of becoming a better version of myself and not for exams. These learning sessions will definitely stay with me for years to come, and just seeing how available the staff at Chabad is to help and mentor us provided me with a sense of comfortability while I was living away from home and my family.
RS: Danielle, In addition to finding scores of ways to enrich our BU Jewish community, you hit the ground running with volunteering -- and then assuming a managerial position -- in the Chabad kitchen. It is often said that "food is love" and the "kitchen is the heart of the home." What have you learned?
DK: Besides learning how to crack an egg with one hand and how to roll a deli roll, I learned so many profound lessons. I now have a deeper understanding of what it means to be grateful and to jump into action when help is needed. There is so much hard work and teamwork that goes into the food experience at Chabad and I feel so blessed to have been able to be a part of that family and legacy.
RS: Nathan, tell me about your Talmud chevruta with Rabbi Aaron Slonim that has spanned some three years now. How did that begin and what was most valuable about that experience?
NK: I still remember when Rabbi Slonim got up on a chair at the Simchat Torah Mitzvah auction my Freshman year asking if someone would want to learn Gemara with him every week. Gemara was something I had previously avoided. However, I really wanted to start learning Torah every week and struggled to do it by myself at this point in my life. So I came forward and said yes. I did not imagine that I would be continuing this chavruta for almost three years now, virtually every week since that week, including weeks we had breaks from school. I have never in my life conducted a siyum. I am looking forward to continuing my chavruta and participating in my first siyum. I am very grateful that Rabbi Slonim got up on that chair and allowed me the privilege of learning with him.
RS: Joshua, you came in as a transfer which is notoriously difficult, but you not only landed on your feet but managed to become an integral part of the Jewish community and larger campus community as well. Looking back, how do you think that happened?
JD: Many students told me how challenging it would be to adjust and find my place and that everyone makes their friend groups when they arrive in the Fall. I made it my mission for that not to be so; to get involved in as much as possible as fast as possible. Within the first week, I got busy and involved in student Govt. and at Chabad. I landed a position on the SA, became an RA as well as an academic advisor and Spin instructor. You could say that one thing led to another and I developed many friends and had plenty to occupy my time. Looking back on my three and a half years at Binghamton, I think I accomplished my mission. Classes may seem stressful, and other students may tell you it's impossible, but it
Mazel Tov Joshua on your graduation! We are so proud of you and all you have achieved. Best wishes for a happy, healthy, meaningful and successful future!
Love, Mom, Dad, & Danielle Dorfman
always is. Who knows where I would have been if I didn't get started that first week and let the despondence that grips so many other students set in. If you feel it's too late, it never is. Get involved as often and as much as possible, and you will see your whole outlook on life change.
RS: David, you came all the way here from Florida. It could not have been the weather that drew you to our parts. Give me a feel for what these past years have been like for you.
DR: It was quite the adjustment but these past three years have been filled with excitement, friendship, and new beginnings. Chabad has been by my side since day one, pushing me to be the best version of myself socially, religiously, and educationally. Although my observance level experienced ups and downs throughout my time in college, Chabad always found ways to make religion appealing to be a participant in. There are so many variations on what that looks like but for me it was the frequent Farbrengens at Rabbi Levi’s. There are many different ways to connect to G-d and enhance your connection with Him, one of these is attending a Farbrengen. One of the most memorable Farbrengens I participated in was at Rabbi Levi’s house on Shavuot. As the hours of the Farbrengen went by, the singing
Congratulations Arielle Goldschmidt!!
We are so proud of you and all of your hard work and accomplishments!! Love; Mom, Dad, Ariel, Bailey and Noa
Mazel Tov Danielle!!
We are so proud of who you are and what you have achieved at BU— we can't wait to see what is still to come!
With love from your biggest fans, Mom, Dad, Sam, Grandma Sheila, Grandpa Allan and Aunt Gail
became more powerful, the thoughts shared more meaningful, and the energy level was only rising. It was truly an unforgettable experience.
RS: Jacob, I know you were very conflicted about coming to Binghamton and vacillated much of your first year here about transferring out. What ultimately made you stay and what have you learned in the process?
JS: What ultimately made me stay in Binghamton was realizing how much this university and community has to offer. Initially, I wasn’t taking advantage of all the different great opportunities that I was surrounded by and had a negative attitude for no apparent reason. Once I took accountability and allowed myself to grow and enjoy my time here, my outlook on college completely changed. I no longer wanted to rush through my time here and wanted to stay and gain valuable experiences with my new friends. The main thing I learned through my decision process was the importance of taking accountability for your own actions and using every experience, both positive and negative, as an opportunity to learn more about yourself and grow from that. Looking back, I am so thankful to Chabad and the entire Jewish community in Binghamton for providing me with an incredible four years.
RS: Gabe, the very first time I met you you shared a rather interesting story about an incident you had during move in day. I am wondering if you would not mind sharing that.
GL: Moving into the dorms on campus as a bushy eyed Freshman, I had preconceived notions about the experiences I thought I would have. I can tell you with certainty that my first one was DEFINITELY not what I was expecting. Moving into Endicott in 2019, I began by unloading my car. Being fresh out of my gap year in Israel, I happened to have a kippah on my head. As I was walking up the path leading to the building with a cart full of stuff, I was approached by a large muscular bald man; you know, the scary type. Seeing the kippah on my head, he asked me in his gruff voice, ‘Are you Jewish?’ My mind began to jump and assume a million things. Was this guy a fellow Jew? Was he an anti-Semite? Why does he care? Regardless, I respond ‘yes, I am Jewish.’ Then, he begins to approach me. Now, I really start panicking because I had no idea what this dude’s deal was. Next he showed me his phone background and I was shocked by what I saw. It was a picture of the Lubavitch Rebbe! He asks me if I know who he is. ‘Of course! That’s the Rebbe!’ To which he responds, ‘that’s my guy’ and proceeds to walk away.
This story was significant in that it foreshadowed what Jewish life in Binghamton would be like for me. Chabad always managed to surprise me in how it would permeate my college experience. Whether I was getting a knock on my door at 12 am from Mendel on a Friday night inviting me to a Fabrengen, to staying up all night learning on Shavuot and finishing by going to the mikvah before davening, Chabad would always find interesting and unusual ways of drawing me back to my Jewish roots. Some of my fondest memories of college are a result of Chabad. The trick is, you have to open yourself up to let them in. And, I promise they won’t disappoint.
RS: Ariella, you have been involved in raising money for Chai Lifeline, in the Fashion for a Cure event, in Sinai Scholars and in the downtown Chabad community. How do you think these involvements shaped you?
AY: My overall takeaway that I learned through these events and Chabad is the idea of being selfless and putting others before you. While it does make you feel good to raise money, it feels even better knowing that the money is going to an amazing place. Chabad has always been there for me especially as a confused spring admit, I could not have been happier having Chabad as a backbone to meet new friends for life. Every person I have worked with just understands the vibe of Chabad of Binghamton is different in an amazing way. My experience with Sinai Scholars was truly insightful as well. I was lucky enough to watch my older sister lead Toy Drive and Fashion For a Cure and knew that I would be participating in them because of how fun it looked and how rewarding it is as well. Overall, I will cherish all my Chabad of Binghamton memories as it was a huge part of my college experience.
RS: Michael, I still remember meeting you for the first time. You were very involved with your Chabad back home and you seemed pretty committed to doing the same here. Indeed you have become a leader here in so many ways. Tell me what you have learned.
MK: I have learned that leadership can come in many different forms. You do not necessarily need to have the highest position or be on a board. Everyone can have their own initiative–no matter how big or small–and impact the community. Creativity and initiative is the fuel for this amazing Jewish community, and any efforts to give back should be encouraged at all
levels. Believe in something and follow through with it.
Never be afraid to take that first step into something new and uncomfortable. I would never even be remotely close to the person I am today if I had been hesitant to go forward with my involvement because it was a little unfamiliar and uncomfortable for me. Taking that first step is crucial to growing as an individual and unlocking one's true potential. We truly never know what we have the ability to do until we do it. To anyone reading this: I urge you to be brave and step out of your comfort zone. I sure am glad I did.
RS: Abbie, I know you were very conflicted about Binghamton and vacillated much of your first year here about transferring out. What ultimately made you stay?
AV: I initially expected to stay at Binghamton for a year or two before transferring. As an out-of-state student, I can still vividly remember how intimidated I felt during those first few weeks. It seemed to me that everyone around me already had their friends from their hometown, high school, camp, etc. and I questioned what I had gotten myself into and if I would ever feel like I belonged.
Fast-forward to the end of Sophomore year, and I was amazed to realize how difficult it was to make a decision about leaving for Cornell. Seeking advice, I spoke to as many people as I could - students who transferred out, students who chose to stay, professors, mentors, etc. Overwhelmingly I got the same response: It’s not where you are that matters, it’s what you are able to do while you’re there. What I had failed to realize until I considered life at a different school, was how seamlessly I could integrate my commitment to Judaism and my commitment to academic excellence that my Russianimmigrant parents had instilled into me from a young age. At Binghamton, I had professors who knew more about the upcoming Jewish holidays than some of my Jewish peers did, I had access to Kosher food in the main dining hall where I could sit with both my Jewish and non-Jewish friends, and I had a huge community of observant students that helped me destress on Shabbat and holidays. Not to mention a committed Chabad staff. The second thing I learned is that you will sometimes have to push yourself out of your comfort zone for the sake of making life-changing connections. True, walking into Chabad those first
few Friday nights was terrifying. But week by week, as I challenged myself to talk to more people, I noticed myself recognizing and being able to greet more and more faces. One of my most cherished memories from my time at Binghamton will always remain the Chanukah party that the Slonims hosted for the Seniors. As Rabbi Slonim made us dreidel-shaped waffles, and Rivky greeted every person that came through the door by name, I knew I would miss this special community. And more than anything I was grateful to see that I had become friends with so many people in the room. It has both felt like a lifetime and a millisecond since I was a shy and scared first-year student, but I can now see and appreciate how far I’ve come and how sad I will be to go.
When I went to the RAT during Hanukkah, I would have never expected Rabbi Levi to come and do a Menorah lighting there! Not only did it bring joy and excitement to the Jewish students celebrating this holiday, it also gave all of the other people at the RAT a glimpse into the happiness this holiday brings. Throughout my time at Binghamton University, I had never truly taken advantage of what Chabad has to offer. However, after experiencing this activity and realizing how enjoyable it can be, I decided to change that. Seeing so many people dancing, smiling, and being brought together even in such an unconventional place motivated me to attend a Friday night Shabbat dinner, Shabbat 2000, and a Challah bake with the Rabbi’s wife. The Menorah lighting opened my eyes to how much I love celebrating my Jewish identity with others, no matter the location! Thanks to Chabad and Rabbi Levi especially, I plan to continue to do so in the future. AP
Although I am not Jewish, Chabad events are a place where anyone can feel welcomed, celebrate life with a gracious intent, build wonderful relationships, and learn lessons that last a lifetime. I truly was enriched; thank you. HB
Chabad—and the DT community especially—has played an extraordinary role in my time at Binghamton and will forever hold a special place in my heart. I will cherish all the memories I’ve made with the remarkable people I’ve met thanks to Rabbi Levy and Hadasa. Thank you for tirelessly ensuring the community has a safe place to celebrate Shabbat and the holidays among other things. May the community continue to grow and thrive as a haven for happiness and bonding. BH
The most surprising/important lesson I learned about myself during my college career.
I can grow fruit flies in my apartment and recognize the stages of their life cycles. CA
I really enjoy going to random events around campus. Sometimes a random jazz concert you saw a poster for just hits the spot. You never know unless you try it. Whatever it is, it's important to explore and try new things! ZBE
Explore your passions, they are worth pursuing! There are so many opportunities in your area of interest you can only have access to once you open yourself up to them! SB
I am far stronger and more resilient than I would have thought. EC
I learned that free time may seem great at first, especially after coming from a high school where you had no free time, but it actually is not. I need something meaningful to occupy my time, and that gives me something to do. JD
I learned how to cook steak to the perfect temperature (Medium Rare). NF
I like taking care of my fish. NK
I can change and grow into a person I never thought I could be back in high school. EJ
There is a balance that everyone needs to find where they can be both persistent and laid back. Persistence is key in finishing projects, studying for tests, finding the perfect job, and even fighting with a professor for points back in a class. At the same time, though, persistence needs to be met with an equal amount of chill so that people don’t get overwhelmed and you don’t burn out. SK
You never know where life will take you. You could plan but be ready to roll with the punches because they make life interesting. GL
That I have the leadership skills necessary to start a new organization on campus, from my original idea to its execution. It is so important to get others' help, as no one can do it all alone. DM
Keep the 501 legacy going. Remember, it is always important having great neighbors like Chabad. DR
I have always stayed true to myself. College throws a lot at you and it can be difficult to navigate and balance everything. Be organized, try new things, meet new people, and have lots of fun doing it. Outside of my school work I found it important to take Jewish learning classes through various platforms and I learned something new each time. Jewish learning brings me happiness and allows me to grow as a Jewish adult. There are so many learning opportunities and events, and I definitely tried to do them all! MS
The best thing you can be is yourself. AT
Chabad of BU Legacy
Joyce (Gottehrer) Kinches ‘92
Danielle’s Mom
Shari (Baum) Bursztyn ‘93
Shoshana’s Mom
David and Gail (Bandler) Rifkin '84
Ezra’s Dad and Mom
Marc and Lori (Lederman) Ben-Ezra ‘87
Zack’s Dad and Mom
Continued from Page 7
Lily Rosenbaum and Jacob Grossman announce their engagement; a January 2023 wedding is planned. Jacob is completing his JD at Hofstra Law School. Lily is pursuing a dual certification in childhood education for general ed and severe/multiple disabilities at Hunter College. They will make their home in NYC.
Miriam Pincus announced her engagement to Akiva Gold; an August 31, 2022 wedding is planned. Miriam is earning her MSW through Werzweiler’s Israel Block and Akiva will be studying Foreign Relations and Middle Eastern Studies at Hebrew University. They will make their home in Jerusalem.
‘21 Alexandra Schreiber announces her engagement to Sam Berman; a June 9, 2022 wedding is planned. Alexandra is going to grad school for
Janine Bahar ‘93
Dayne Katz’s Mom
Mark Solkoff ‘ 89 Maya’s Dad
Occupational Therapy and Sam is a software engineer. They will make their home in NYC.
Arielle Wenig and Jonathan Rubin announce their engagement; a summer 2023 wedding is planned. Arielle is pursuing her Doctorate in School and Clinical Psychology; Jonathan is a Business Analyst at Crestron Electronics.
Yoni Friedman and Sarah Brooks announce their engagement; a June 20, 2022 wedding is planned. Yoni is pursuing his JD at Fordham Law School; Sara is pursuing her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Hunter College. They will make their home in NYC.
Hannah Loffman and Isaac Feldman announce their engagement. See ‘20 for full details.
‘22 Arielle Goldschmidt and Ariel Gidon announce their engagement. See ‘19 for full details.
SHABBAT 2000
FASHION FOR A CURE
Purim Katan Festival
Hamantashen Bakes Galore
420 Murray Hill Road Vestal, NY 13850
Change service requested
607.797.0015
info@chabadofbinghamton.com www.JewishBU.com
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Pure Joy at Shabbat 2000 see pages 24-25 for more photos
The Rohr Chabad Center for Jewish Student Life at Binghamton University
